Radio play event looks to bridge the gap between the older and younger generations

The Campaign to End Loneliness, based at Sheffield Hallam University, is collaborating with Age UK Sheffield to host an event centred on a radio play that promotes intergenerational friendship as a way of addressing social isolation.

Rutland-based actor and writer Henry Dawe wrote The Autumn of My Years with the aim of breaking down barriers between generations. The play illustrates that age differences need not prevent meaningful friendships; that older people should remain socially active, as they never know who they might meet; that their mood and outlook can be enhanced when young people take an interest in them; and that young people can also find joy in befriending older individuals.

Henry explains that The Autumn of My Years is inspired by two true stories. “I met a woman in her late fifties while queuing for theatre returns in 2009, and we became great friends. I also used to visit my neighbour, a former Bletchley Park codebreaker, when she was in her eighties. These two connections – along with others I’ve formed locally over the years – had a profound and lasting impact on me. I was convinced there was an important message to share about intergenerational friendship and combating loneliness. I felt a radio play would be a compelling way to achieve this.”

Henry recorded the play with a professional cast and director in London in July 2022. Since then, it has been broadcast on four regional radio stations in the Midlands and used by the Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Tackling Loneliness Collaborative to highlight the importance of building friendships across generations.

From 11:30 am-2:00 pm on Wednesday, 26th February, the radio play will be broadcast in three parts, with breaks for refreshments and light lunch, at Age UK Sheffield, 197 Eyre Street, S1 3FG, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Building. Following the broadcast, attendees will have the opportunity to discuss the themes explored in the play with Henry Dawe, Andrea Wigfield, Antonia Ypsilanti from Sheffield Hallam University, The Centre for Loneliness Studies, and Teresa Barker, CEO of Age UK Sheffield.

Age UK Sheffield’s CEO, Teresa Barker, commented: “We’re delighted to host this event at Age UK Sheffield. The play shines a light on the vital role of connection, friendship, and laughter in supporting wellbeing for people of all ages.”

The event is free to attend, but donations to Age UK Sheffield would be greatly appreciated. For any questions, please contact 0114 250 2850.